There is no set time that insurance companies have to investigate a claim. In serious cases involving permanent injuries or a fatality, they usually begin their investigation immediately. That’s why it’s important to consult with a Marietta car accident lawyer quickly. Evidence can be lost or destroyed.
Our firm will communicate directly with the insurance company in your case and ensure it follows the law and handles your claim fairly.
What Happens During an Insurance Investigation?
When you file a claim, the insurance company investigates to determine:
- Liability: Who was at fault?
- Damages: The extent of injuries and property damage.
- Coverage: Whether the policy covers the claim.
- Fraud: Any red flags that suggest false claims.
During this process, they could request documents, conduct interviews, and even send adjusters to assess damages.
How Our Injury Attorneys Will Help Speed Up the Claims Process
Hiring an experienced lawyer to handle your case will make a difference when dealing with insurance companies. We will manage all the tasks of your case and:
- Demand timely responses: We ensure insurers act reasonably.
- Handle all communications: You won’t have to deal with adjusters or frustrating delays. We will handle all verbal and written correspondence.
- Gather strong evidence: We will build a solid case to prevent unnecessary disputes.
- Negotiate for a fair settlement: If the insurer stalls the process, we will seek a quick and fair resolution.
If the insurer still refuses to act in good faith, we’re ready to take legal action on your behalf.
What Could Delay an Insurance Investigation?
Common reasons an insurance claim could take longer than expected include:
- Incomplete documentation: Missing police reports, medical records, or accident details.
- Disputes over fault: If both parties disagree on liability.
- Severe injuries or high damages: More extensive claims take longer to evaluate.
- Insurance company tactics: Some insurers intentionally delay claims to pressure claimants into lower settlements.
If your claim is taking too long, our firm will talk with the insurer and get them to act.
How Do You Prove Your Claim?
To strengthen your claim and speed up the process, gather as much evidence as possible. Helpful evidence includes:
- Police reports that document what happened
- Medical records proving the extent of your injuries
- Photos and videos of the accident scene and damages
- Witness statements supporting your version of events
- Proof of lost income if your injuries kept you from working
The more evidence you provide, the harder it is for an insurance company to delay, undervalue, or deny your claim. If you require help collecting the right evidence, we will help you.
What if an Insurer Unreasonably Delays Your Claim?
If an insurer unnecessarily delays your claim, you have legal options, such as:
- Demand a response: Our lawyers will formally request a decision.
- File a complaint: Report the insurer to the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner.
- Pursue bad faith damages: If an insurer acts unreasonably or violates Georgia law, you might be able to recover additional damages. Our attorneys will advise you on what you could recover.
Could an Insurance Company Deny Your Claim After Investigating?
After an investigation, an insurance company could deny your claim.
Common reasons for denial include:
- Policy exclusions: The insurance company claims the policy doesn’t cover the accident.
- Liability disputes: The insurer argues that you were at fault or that another party is responsible.
- Insufficient evidence: It claims there’s not enough proof of your injuries or damages.
- Missed deadlines: If you fail to file your claim within the required time frame, the insurer will likely deny it.
What if the Insurance Company Offers a Low Settlement?
Even when insurance companies approve a claim, they usually offer less than you deserve. You don’t have to accept their first offer. Instead:
- Review the offer carefully: Make sure it covers all your medical expenses, lost wages, and damages.
- Compare it to your actual costs: If the settlement doesn’t match your losses, you likely deserve more.
- Negotiate: You have the right to counter their offer with proof of your damages.
- Talk to a lawyer: We will negotiate on your behalf and push for the settlement you deserve.
Insurance companies count on you to accept less than you’re owed. With an experienced attorney on your side, you will be able to fight for the full and fair amount you deserve.
How Long Do You Have to File an Insurance Claim in Georgia?
Although insurers must investigate claims promptly, you also have a legal deadline to take action. In Georgia:
- Personal injury claims: You must file within two years (Ga. Code § 9-3-33).
- Property damage claims: The deadline is four years (Ga. Code § 9-3-32).
Waiting too long will likely cost you your right to damages. We will file your case on time if we handle your case.
Find Out How Long an Insurance Company Has to Investigate Your Claim
When you suffer a loss, you expect the insurance company to review your claim quickly and move it forward. Unfortunately, the process isn’t always that simple, and delays are frustrating. If you want to know how long it takes an insurance company to look into a claim, come to us.
At Jones & Swanson, our personal injury lawyers in Marietta understand the tactics insurers use—and we won’t let them take advantage of you. We will evaluate your situation, explain the timeline in your case, and fight to ensure they handle it fairly.
Our attorneys lead a smaller firm by choice because we believe in personalized attention, responsiveness, and superior service. We have the experience and resources to handle even the most complex claims. If your claim is being delayed or unfairly denied, let us fight for you. Call us today for a free consultation.
